Air India Express Commemorates The UAE National Day With Attractive Discounts

In a tribute to the UAE national day, Air India Express offers 15% off on all international flights for direct channel bookings made till 3rd December 2023, for travel from 2nd December 2023 to 31st March 2024. Logged-in members also get a complimentary fresh fruit platter for bookings made on the airline’s award-winning mobile app and website, airindiaexpress.com. 

Air India Express operates a robust schedule to various destinations in the Gulf and Middle East, with a total of 195 weekly departures from India to the UAE alone. The airline connects various destinations in the UAE, including Dubai (DXB) with 80 flights, followed by Sharjah (SHJ) with 77 weekly flights, and Abu Dhabi (AUH) with 31 flights. Other UAE destinations include Al Ain (AAN) with 2 flights and Ras Al Khaimah (RKT) with 5 weekly flights. 

Talking about this special sale, Ms. Tara Naidu, VP - International Business, Air India Express, said, "As we commemorate the UAE National Day, it's crucial to reaffirm our dedication to the region, boasting an extensive network linking the UAE and India. This sale carries particular significance, underlining our commitment to nurturing meaningful connections and crafting journeys that go beyond mere travel. Air India Express has a historical and emotional connect with the UAE market, as we commenced our operations 18 years back, with 3 flights taking off simultaneously from three different airports in India to Dubai. As we bolstered our presence across, we have been privileged to be a part of a million gulf dreams, contributing to the growth of both the geographies and the people." 

The airline connects India to Oman with 32 weekly departures, Bahrain with 14 flights, Qatar with 26 flights, Kuwait with 9 flights, and Dammam (DMM) with 14 flights. Furthermore, there are 9 weekly flights each to Riyadh (RUH) and Jeddah (JED), contributing to a total of 32 flights to destinations in Saudi Arabia. In total, Air India Express operates 389 weekly departures to the Middle East, showcasing a strategic and extensive presence in the region. 

Air India Express operates over 300 flights daily to 30 domestic and 14 international destinations with a fleet of 57 aircraft, comprising 29 Boeing 737s and 28 Airbus A320s. Air India Express recently unveiled its refreshed brand identity, inviting travellers to ‘Fly as You Are’ with digitally empowered personalisation, offering a wide range of Gourmair hot meals, comfortable seating, in-flight experience hub AirFlix, and a suite of exclusive loyalty benefits. The refreshed brand identity reflects the airline’s vision to inspire new possibilities and make meaningful connections with unmatched Indian warmth. 

About Air India Express 

Air India Express, is a subsidiary of Air India and a part of the Tata group, operating over 300 flights daily, connecting 30 domestic and 14 international airports, with a fleet of 57 aircraft, comprising 29 Boeing 737s and 28 Airbus A320s. Air India Express invites guests with the proposition to ‘Fly As You Are’, using thoughtfully considered technology to enable flyers to personalise and take charge of their travel experience. The airline offers Gourmair hot meals, comfortable seats, pioneering in-flight experience hub AirFlix, and a host of exclusive loyalty benefits with a sense of unique Indian warmth, on its award-winning digital experience on its mobile app and website, airindiaexpress.com. 

Air India, To Save Up To 75,000 Litres Of Water Per Aircraft Every Year With Automated Cleaning

·         Wireless device to enhance efficiency, boost green drive

Air India, India’s leading global airline, has introduced an environment-friendly, automated aircraft exterior washing and cleaning system that will further boost the airline’s operational efficiency through the adoption of innovative technology.

The device ‘Aerowash’ is equipped with multiple modern features, like robotic micro-fibre brush drum for cleaning and uses a nearly waterless process which enhances efficiencies in functioning considerably while making it more sustainable. While for a narrow-body aircraft, the volume of clean water saved in a year would be up to 30,000 litres per aircraft, as much as 75,000 litres of similar water would be saved for cleaning of one wide-body aircraft per year. With fleet augmentation going on in full swing in Air India, the total quantity of clean water likely to be saved in future is humongous.

“The modern system of cleaning reinforces our dedication to efficiency, sustainability, and pioneering advancements at par with industry-best practices. The device has ensured not only better maintenance of our aircraft but will also contribute to a greener environment in sync with the Tata group’s commitment towards more sustainable ways of doing business.”, said, S.K. Dash, Chief Technical Officer, Air India.

Aircraft cleaning is a critical aspect of maintenance and relies on time-consuming, resource-intensive and manual engagement. However, automated cleaning is not only time-efficient and sustainable, but it also reduces aerodynamic drag caused due to the accumulation of dirt, dust or grime, ultimately reducing the aircraft weight. This results in enhanced fuel efficiency in the long run while bringing down carbon footprint. This also safeguards against structural damage and prevents corrosion resulting in extending the lifespan of the aircraft too. The superior quality of cleaning will not only enhance the appearance of the aircraft but also ensure a better cleaning by covering even critical areas of the aircraft like the crown, elevator or rudder.

Dev Gadhvi Unveils Exclusive 'Passion-To-Profit' Blueprint At The Bengaluru Workshop

Renowned Passionpreneur Dev Gadhvi is bringing his transformative “Build Business Around Passion” Workshop to Bangalore. This dynamic event is scheduled for December 10th, 2023, at the prestigious Sheraton Grand Hotel Bangalore, from 9 AM to 7 PM IST.

For the first time ever, attendees will witness the live unveiling of Dev Gadhvi's “Passion-to-Profit” Blueprint. This workshop is more than an event; it's a promise of change, offering clear, actionable steps to help you escape the 9-5 grind, pursue your passion, and build a lucrative business poised to hit the 1 crore mark in the coming year.

Unlock Your Passion Potential

The exclusive one-day workshop is designed to empower participants by helping them:

* Identify their passions and transform them into viable business ventures.

* Craft their first product and connect with a market of eager customers.

* Scale their business to achieve and surpass the annual 1 crore milestone.

A Journey to Financial Independence

Dev Gadhvi’s mission is to offer more than just business strategies; he aims to provide the keys to financial independence, time flexibility, and the freedom to follow your passions without restraint.

Limited Seats for a Life-Changing Opportunity

This event is an exclusive opportunity to engage directly with a leading figure in passion-driven entrepreneurship. Seats are limited to ensure personalized interaction, so early registration is highly recommended.

Join us for a day that could redefine the trajectory of your professional life. Reserve your spot in the “Build Business Around Passion” Workshop and take the first step towards becoming a crorepati by 2024.

For more information and to register for the event, visit https://www.passionpreneurs.in/bbap-workshop

Date: Sunday, Dec 10, 2023

Time: 9am-7pm

Location: Sheraton Grand Hotel Bangalore

About Dev Gadhvi

Dev Gadhvi is a globally recognized entrepreneur, business mentor, consultant, best-selling author, philanthropist, public speaker, influencer and a self-made millionaire. He is India's first Passionpreneur Mentor and is on a mission to transform one billion lives by helping people identify their passion and build a business around it through his organization, Dev Gadhvi Creations Private Limited.

JLR India's Annual Holiday Service Camp To Be Held From December 4- 9, 2023

* Customers can bring their cars to authorised retailers in their city from 4th to 9th December 2023 to benefit from the service camp

* Exclusive offers available on Branded Goods, Accessories and Value-Added Services along with a specially curated Chauffeur Training Program

* The annual holiday service camp will offer comprehensive 32-point Electronic Vehicle Health Check-Up

JLR India today announced their annual holiday service camp will be held from 4th to 9th December 2023, across all authorised retailers in India. At the camp, clients can benefit from comprehensive vehicle check and exclusive offers on Branded Goods, Accessories and Value-Added Services. All vehicles will be attended to by highly trained technicians and receive the assurance of JLR Genuine Parts, where necessary.

The camp will offer a 32-point Electronic Vehicle Health Check-Up, Brake and Wiper check, Tyre and Fluid Level check, as well as a comprehensive Battery Health check, ensuring every journey is made safe and secure.

Mr. Rajan Amba, Managing Director, JLR India, said: “Amidst the excitement of the holiday season, ensuring your vehicle is in top condition becomes paramount. Our holiday service camps offer more than just convenience; they're a lifeline for a smooth and worry-free journey. From ensuring safety on winter roads to maintaining peak performance for those memorable road trips, investing in our tailored services guarantees complete peace of mind."

For customers with chauffeurs, the service camp will also include a specially curated Chauffeur Training Program* that will cover all aspects of driving and vehicle maintenance.

To avail these services, customers can schedule an appointment with the closest authorised retailer between 9:30am and 4:30pm from 4th to 9th December 2024.

Jaguar Land Rover Retailer Network in India

Jaguar Land Rover vehicles are available in India in 21 cities, through 25 authorized outlets in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru (3), Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai (2), Coimbatore, Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Kochi, Karnal, Lucknow, Mumbai (2), Noida, Pune, Raipur, Surat and Vijayawada.

*The Chauffeur Training Program is available at select retail locations. Please get in touch with the authorized retailer in your city for more information.

MAHE’s Centre For cGMP, Manipal Bags The prestigious India Pharma Awards 2023 For Excellence In Quality Assurance

Centre for cGMP at Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MCOPS), MAHE Manipal achieved a significant milestone of being awarded the prestigious INDIA PHARMA AWARDS 2023 on Day 1 of CPHI-PMEC India at India Expo Center, Greater Noida thus making it the only academic Institute to have received this award for the first time.

A proposal was submitted by the Centre for cGMP, MAHE, Manipal, for the unique initiative and conceiving the idea of celebrating “National cGMP Day”. The Centre for cGMP had submitted nomination documents, a quality assessment report, and an evidence report of the measurable impact, testimonials, etc. Amid very high competition, the Centre for cGMP’s proposal was selected for the final jury meeting. The selection process involved due diligence and a thorough review process by 12 jury members.

Centre for cGMP received the invitation from EY LLP to present the concept of “National cGMP Day” in person at Le Meridian, New Delhi. EY was appointed as the Process Advisors for the INDIA PHARMA AWARDS 2023 – CPHI - PMEC. The final Jury Round for the awards was held on November 27, 2023, at Le Meridian, New Delhi.

"As the coordinator of cGMP at MAHE, receiving the prestigious INDIA PHARMA AWARDS 2023 is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our team," Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh,

Vice Chancellor Manipal Academy of Higher Education says, speaking about the institute's remarkable accomplishment. “This award confirms our commitment to quality assurance excellence and our ongoing efforts to raise the bar for pharmaceutical standards. It's more than simply a recognition; it's a testament to our shared enthusiasm, diligence, and quest of excellence in improving pharmaceutical procedures. We are motivated by this honor to keep pushing the boundaries of the pharmaceutical sector and to innovate even more."

From MAHE, Dr. Girish Pai K, Coordinator of Centre and Dr. Muddukrishna BS, Co-Coordinator of the Centre, were nominated to represent the Center for cGMP and make a three-minute presentation to the jury. Dr. Girish presented to the Esteemed Grand Jury Panel. Jury members also interacted with Dr. Girish Pai and Dr. Muddukrishna during the Q & A session.

The award was received by Dr Girish Pai K and Dr Muddukrishna from Christopher Eve, Senior Vice President, Informa Markets in the August presence of Industry leaders, pharmaceutical entrepreneurs, executives from companies of high repute, and exhibitors of the CPHI PMEC 2023 event.

Toyota Motor Corporation Announces Regional Level Restructuring With India Poised To Play A Vital Role

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) today announced a significant regional restructuring, reemphasizing the pivotal role of India in the company's global strategy. Currently, as a part of the Asia Region, the Indian market already enjoys high priority. With this change, India will now play an even more crucial role by being integrated into the Middle East, East Asia & Oceania Region and acting as the hub of the new “India, Middle East, East Asia & Oceania Region” starting January 1, 2024.

The new reorganization, which underlines the growing significance of India in Toyota's global business landscape, reflects the increasing potential of the market upheld by its dynamic and skilled workforce.

As part of this development, Mr. Masakazu Yoshimura, MD and CEO of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) will concurrently be the Regional CEO. Appointed as MD and CEO of TKM in 2019, Mr. Yoshimura, having worked in countries such as Japan, China and South Africa, brings close to 30 years of rich automobile experience covering diverse fields such as Product Planning, Pricing, Sales & Marketing, etc. During his tenure, TKM has successfully launched several world-class products including the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, the Innova Hycross, both with Hybrid Electric Vehicle variants and the Hilux.

Celebrating 25 years of operations in the country, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has announced a series of priority investments marking a substantial stride towards establishing India as a global hub for the manufacturing of clean and green technologies. On November 21, 2023 the company announced fresh investments of INR 3,300 crores involving setting-up of a new plant by 2026, thus adding to capacity thereby resulting in a substantial boost to the local manufacturing eco-system, along with ushering new technologies to create “mobility for all. The new plant is expected to ramp-up production capacity by 1,00,000 units, annually, and generate around 2000 numbers of additional employment.  

Last year, in 2022, Toyota Group of companies, that included Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts (TKAP), had also announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Karnataka to invest INR 4,100 crores, aimed at making deeper cuts in CO2 emissions and enhance electrification and accelerate the shift towards greener technologies.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Sells 17,818 Units In November 2023, Achieves Year-On-Year Growth of 51%

 

·       First eleven months of CY 2023 witnesses a significant surge of 40% over the same period last year

·       Key Corporate Developments: 1) Celebrates 25 years of operations in India 2) Signs MOU with Karnataka for fresh investment of INR.3,300 crores including ramp-up of production capacity by 1,00,000 units annually and creation of 2000 new job opportunities

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), today registered sales of 17,818 units in November 2023 reporting a growth of 51%, compared the same month of 2022, where it had sold 11,765 units. While the company sold 16,924 units in domestic market, 894 units of The Urban Cruiser Hyryder were exported. TKM also undertook a weeklong maintenance shutdown from November 11-19, 2023 for upkeeping of machinery and equipment to sustain operational efficiencies, maintain quality and safety.

The overall growth chart of TKM continues to gain momentum with cumulative sales for the Calendar Year (CY) 2023 reaching 2,10,497 units, thus reflecting a remarkable 40% increase over the same period in 2022, where the sales were 1,49,995 units.

Commenting on the sales momentum, Mr. Atul Sood, Vice President of Sales and Strategic Marketing at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said “In November’23 we registered a wholesale growth of 51% as compared to the same period last year. This is despite a weeklong scheduled halt as a part of maintenance to enhance future efficiencies and ensure quality of the highest standard. As a customer centric company, we ensured minimum impact on delivery by using contingent inventory to serve the pending and immediate requirements of our customers.

We recorded a strong festive season with healthy bookings, and we are extremely thrilled to see the market responding very positively to our entire product range. Popular models, like the Hilux, Innova Hycross, Urban Cruiser Hyryder and the New Innova Crysta continue to steer our growth. The ever-loved Fortuner and Legender continue mark their strong presence by upholding segment leadership. In addition, the Vellfire, Rumion, Camry Hybrid and Glanza are positively contributing to our booking numbers thus encouraging us to look forward to closing the year on a record high. 

Month of November marked 25 years of TKM’s India journey in India, as we continue to be driven by our customer-centric approach that focuses on the highest quality standards to offer customers a delightful ownership experience. I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to over 2.3 million Toyota owners in India. It’s the trust & confidence of our customers that is not only generating overwhelming response for our entire product portfolio but also encouraging us to undertake more customer centric initiatives to grow the Toyota family.”

In a remarkable, corporate milestone which coincided with the company 25 years of operations in India, TKM signed an MOU with the government of Karnataka for the next round of investments of around INR. 3,300 crores involving setting-up of a new plant thus adding to capacity thereby resulting in a substantial boost to the local manufacturing eco-system, along with ushering new technologies to create “mobility for all”.

Aditya Birla Health Insurance Unveils 'Activ One' Across Indian Market

 ~ A Simplified & Comprehensive Health Insurance Solution that gives 100% Health and 100% Health Insurance   ~

Aditya Birla Health Insurance Co. Limited (“ABHICL”), the health insurance arm of Aditya Birla Capital, India’s leading, well-diversified financial services provider, announced the launch of ‘Activ One,’ a simplified and comprehensive health insurance plan that empowers its policyholders with tailor-made solutions to meet not just their health insurance needs but also enables them to be the healthiest version of themselves.

Key Features 

100% HealthReturnsTM: Enables policyholders to earn back their entire premium by leading an active and healthy lifestyle. Funds earned as HealthReturns™ can be used for payment of renewal premium and other non-medical expenses, out-patient expenses etc. 

Claim Protect: With this feature, policyholders get covered for all listed non-medical expenses related to hospitalization. This includes expenses incurred for face masks, cotton, gloves, oxygen cylinders, etc.

No Sub-Limits: No capping on room rent, ICU charges, listed modern treatments like robotic surgeries, oral chemotherapy, etc. and more, up to Sum Insured, empowering our policyholders to make healthcare decisions based on their needs, not on arbitrary limitations.

Super Reload: This feature gives unlimited refill up to base sum insured during a policy year, so that the policyholder does not run out of their health insurance cover.

Super Credit: Policyholders get to combat medical inflation as their Sum Insured increases by up to six times, by the 6th year of their policy, irrespective of claims, at no extra premium payments.

Loaded with industry leading features such as 100% HealthReturnsTM, Claim Protect, No Sub-Limits, Super Reload and Super Credit, Activ One is ABHICL’s most comprehensive product yet, offering customers a one-stop-solution for their health assurance and their health insurance needs

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Mayank Bathwal, CEO, Aditya Birla Health Insurance, said, "Activ One is a result of us being good at listening to our stakeholders - our customers, advisors, distributors and partners. Based on their inputs and insights, we developed Activ One, that addresses the needs of every consumer - across their different health or life stages, and at stages of battling chronic ailments. With seven variants built into one product, we are offering the Power of One, to all. At ABHI, our vision has always been to incentivize wellness, encouraging policyholders to embrace a healthier lifestyle and holistic well-being. Through Activ One, we want to ensure that our policyholders experience a simplified and comprehensive healthcare solution that is personalised, rewarding and worry-free.”

Activ One stands out with its wide-ranging set of built-in features, including coverage for in-patient hospitalization and pre- and post-hospitalization expenses extending up to 90 and 180 days. For the first time Aditya Birla Health will offer coverage live-in partners (same or opposite sex) under the policy. This apart, the policy has chronic care cover which provides Day 1 cover (zero waiting period) to people with seven chronic conditions such as Asthma, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Diabetes, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Obesity and Coronary Artery Disease (PTCA done prior to 1 year).

Reinforcing ABHICL’s commitment to well-being, Activ One includes the HealthReturnsTM feature, which enables policyholders to earn back their entire premium (up to 100% HealthReturns) which can be accrued on the basis of Healthy Heart Score™, the fitness assessment result and the number of Active Dayz™ recorded on a monthly basis. A customer can earn “Active Dayz™ by undertaking any prescribed fitness activities like, walking 10,000 steps, or undertaking regular exercise, yoga sessions etc. Funds earned as HealthReturns™ can be used for payment of renewal premium and other non-medical expenses, out-patient expenses etc.

With no capping on maximum age of entry, Activ One includes an optional coverage for durable equipment, second medical opinion, personal accidents, critical illnesses, and a cancer booster as well.

Bank of Baroda Raises Rs 5000 Crore Through The Issuance of Infrastructure And Affordable Housing Bonds

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, announced that it has raised Rs. 5,000 crore on 30th November, 2023 through the issuance of Long-Term Bonds for financing Infrastructure and Affordable Housing. The Bank received total bids of Rs. 10,350 crore against the total issue size of Rs. 5,000 crore (Base issue of Rs. 1000 crore and Greenshoe option of Rs. 4000 crore). The Bank accepted bids for Rs. 5,000 crore at a coupon of 7.68% p.a.  

These bonds are Senior, Unsecured, Listed, Rated, Taxable Bonds, having a fixed maturity of 10 years from the date of allotment. 

The allotment of these bonds took place on 1st December, 2023. 

The bonds are rated AAA with a Stable outlook by CRISIL and India Ratings.  

About Bank of Baroda 

Founded on 20th July, 1908 by Sir Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Bank of Baroda is one of the leading commercial banks in India. At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the Government of India. The Bank serves its global customer base of ~165 million through over 70,000 touch points spread across 17 countries in five continents and through its various digital banking platforms, which provide all banking products and services in a seamless and hassle-free manner. The Bank’s vision matches the aspirations of its diverse clientele base and seeks to instil a sense of trust and security in all their dealings with the Bank. 

Visit us at www.bankofbaroda.in  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/bankofbaroda/ 

Twitter https://twitter.com/bankofbaroda 

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/officialbankofbaroda/ 

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdf14FHPLt7omkE9CmyrVHA  

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/bankofbaroda/ 

Honda Cars India Registers 24% Domestic Sales Growth With 8,730 Units In November 2023

* Exports clocked 335% growth in November 2023 

Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), leading manufacturer of premium cars in India registered monthly domestic sales of 8,730 units witnessing a growth of 24% over the same month last year. The export numbers for HCIL during Nov’23 were 3,161 units with a growth of over 335% growth. The company had registered 7,051 in domestic sales and exported 726 units in November’22.   

Sharing thoughts on the November’23 sales performance, Mr. Yuichi Murata, Director, Marketing and Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd said, “Our product line-up saw a good surge in demand throughout the festive period. Our new SUV Honda Elevate has been well received by the market with very high customer consideration. We are confident to carry forward this growth momentum for the rest of the year.”  

About Honda Cars India Ltd. 

Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), a leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, was established in December 1995 with a commitment to provide Honda’s passenger car models and technologies, to the Indian customers. HCIL’s corporate office is based in Greater Noida, UP and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is located at Tapukara, District. Alwar, Rajasthan.  

Honda’s models are strongly associated with advanced design and technology, apart from their established qualities of durability, reliability, safety, and fuel-efficiency. The company has a strong sales and distribution network spread across the country.  

Besides the new car business, Honda offers one stop solution for buying and selling pre-owned cars through its business function Honda Auto Terrace. The Honda Certified Pre-owned cars come with an assurance of quality and peace of mind that caters to the diverse and burgeoning needs of pre-owned car buyers across the country. 

Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 Concludes With Unprecedented Success

Key Highlights: 

* Government of Karnataka unveiled a revised policy for Biotechnology and a new Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) policy 

* An MoU was signed between the US-India Business Council (USIBC) and the Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, Government of Karnataka on Innovation & Technology to identify and address common challenges, facilitate collaboration and promote Karnataka as an attractive investment destination for American companies  

* An MoU signed between Opportunities New Brunswick (ONB) and the Association of Biotechnology LED Enterprises (ABLE) aims to facilitate technology-based foreign direct investments, fostering global competitiveness between Canada and India 

* An MoU was announced between Swissnex in India and Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) to align India & Switzerland in 3 focus areas viz; Health, Sustainability and Digital Transformation  

* STPI in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka supported by HPEIPL sets up a Center of Excellence (CoE-EA) in Efficiency Augmentation at Jayanagar, Bengaluru, to leverage the emerging Industry 4.0 technologies 

* Uber launched global flagship electric vehicle service Uber Green, offering residents convenient access to eco-friendly rides through their app 

* STPI IT Export Awards 2023 Announced: IT Ratna of Karnataka was awarded to Infosys Ltd. and Intel Technologies Pvt. Ltd. 

* The 24th edition of the TCS Rural IT Quiz received 5.5 lakhs registrations and  participation from over 28 States and 5 UTs 

* The 16th edition of the BioQuiz received 923 registrations and participation from 28 States & UTs 

* At the summit, Government of Karnataka announced support for C-CAMP in launching Phase II of two major biotech innovation programs  

Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 introduces 'Investor Startup Connect' for UAE investors, a first-of-its-kind initiative aiding startups in their growth journey  

BTS 2023 proudly adopts the '#GreenBTS' initiative, achieving zero waste to landfill, reducing plastic use by 95% YoY, and setting new sustainability standards with partners 'EcoMorphosys.' 

The three-day Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023, held at the Bangalore Palace, concluded today with resounding success, breaking new ground in the realm of technology and innovation. Themed "Breaking Boundaries: Innovations from India, Impact for the World," the summit served as a global gathering for visionaries, industry leaders, and tech enthusiasts. Notable figures, including Dr. R.A. Mashelkar and Nobel Laureate Dr. H. Robert Horvitz, addressed the attendees among the 4773 delegates and key dignitaries present. The overwhelming response saw enthusiastic participation from diverse backgrounds, including tech professionals, entrepreneurs, government officials, and students. 

The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 has been a global standout, with participants from 45 countries, 83 sessions, and insights from 401 speakers. The event featured 553 exhibitors and 258 startups across various fields, facilitating connections through 427 physical B2B meetings and 1981 virtual connect sessions. With a strong attendance of 8606 business professionals and 18,592 registered Business Visitors, the summit also recorded an impressive 50,000 Expo Footfalls. Noteworthy contributions came from countries like Australia, Denmark, South Korea, and Japan in the GIA Expo, as well as major academic institutions like Amity University and industry leaders like Infosys, Biocon, Microsoft Startup, and more. The summit, with its Lab2Market Pavilion and various other pavilions, emerged as a vibrant hub for global innovation and collaboration. 

Throughout the summit, groundbreaking technologies, solutions and policies were unveiled, promising to reshape industries and societies. Renowned innovators, scientists, and tech evangelists from around the world actively participated, emphasizing the transformative potential of technological advancements. The Global Innovation Alliances (GIA) track featured 20 countries including Australia, Finland, Netherlands, South Korea, Israel, Austria, France, UK, Japan, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, Poland, Lithuania, Switzerland, Thailand, Ireland, Spain, Belgium, Bulgaria and witnessed the participation of ambassadors from SIX countries - Australia, Finland, Germany, UK, Netherlands and Lithuania.  

Summary of the Three-Day Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023: 

At the Bengaluru Tech Summit, the Government of Karnataka unveiled a revised policy for Biotechnology and a new Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) policy to drive economic development in these sectors. The Biotechnology Policy aims for exponential growth, building on Karnataka's status as the 'Biotechnology Capital of India.' The AVGC-XR policy seeks to leverage the state's IT and BPM strengths to establish global leadership, emphasizing talent development, job creation, exports, and sustainability.  

During the GIA track's opening session at the India-US Tech Conclave, a significant MoU was signed between the US-India Business Council (USIBC) and the Government of Karnataka's Department of Electronics, IT, Bt. Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for IT & Bt and RD&PR, Govt. of Karnataka, highlighted the collaboration's importance in fostering a vibrant economic partnership and addressing common challenges.  

An MoU was signed between Opportunities New Brunswick (ONB) and the Association of Biotechnology LED Enterprises (ABLE) to gear towards fostering technology and technology-based foreign direct investment, boost global competitiveness for companies in both regions. This collaboration is poised to advance biotechnology in both countries and foster mutually beneficial collaborations. 

On Day 1 there was an interesting Fireside Chat between Infosys Founder Shri N.M Narayana Murthy, moderated by Zerodha CEO Nikhil Kamath, discussing the theme "Legend, Legacy, and Leadership." Shri N.M Narayana Murthy portrayed Bengaluru as a diverse innovation hub, emphasizing the transition from socialism to compassionate capitalism. Advocating for ethical business practices, he called for simplified regulations, increased foreign investment, and highlighted the importance of infrastructure and education. Murthy expressed confidence in India surpassing China's GDP through innovation, urging unified efforts for a prosperous future. 

On Day 2, a lively fireside chat on "Basic Research to High-Impact Innovation," by Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Nobel Laureate Dr. H. Robert Horvitz explore

India's investment focus in scientific research. Dr. Mazumdar-Shaw advocated for government support in fundamental research, while Dr. Horvitz emphasized the importance of a balanced research portfolio. He highlighted the transformative impact of research on patient recovery and stressed the need for an open-minded, opportunistic career approach. The dialogue underscored the necessity of diverse research investments, governmental backing for fundamental research, and the value of adaptability in shaping a fulfilling professional trajectory. 

The Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka unveiled 37 ground-breaking products and solutions developed by startups during the 26th edition of the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2023. The second edition of Startup Product Launch was held at the Startup Innovation Zone over the 2nd and 3rd day of the summit. This initiative reflects the state's commitment to fostering innovation across a diverse spectrum of industries. 

Uber unveiled its global flagship electric vehicle service, Uber Green, offering residents convenient access to eco-friendly rides through their app that was launched by Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister of IT, Bt, RD&PR, and Uber India President Prabhjeet Singh during the Bengaluru Tech Summit.  

The national finals of the 24th edition of  'TCS Rural IT Quiz’ were open to students in classes 8 to 12 across India. The winners of this program, Udit Pratap Singh from BSP Senior Secondary School, Bhilai Chhattisgarh claimed the first place, while Vignesh Nauso Shetye from Dr. K.B. Hedgewar Vidyamandir, Bicholim, Goa and Amrut Uppar from The Forbes Academy, Gokak Karnataka were the runners-up.  

The Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) and the Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, have officially announced a strategic partnership with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) during the formal launch of Phase II for two flagship innovation programs. One program is dedicated to the agriculture domain, while the other focuses on startup acceleration to scale up the rapidly growing biotech startup community in the state. 

For the first time in BTS 2023, there was a UAE Investor session for startups named, ‘Investor Startup Connect’ to further assist the startups in their growth journey. Around 20+ Startups pitched in front of VCs from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The startups were from various sectors like Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Augmented Reality, Med Tech, FinTech and 3D Printing. 

The three-day Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 witnessed a pivotal moment with the third edition of the India-USA Tech Conclave, serving as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration between the two nations. This conclave focused on fostering future innovations and exchanging ideas, with sessions delving into key areas like Commercial Space, e-Commerce, Supply Chain and logistics, Healthtech, AVGC, and more. 

One of the summit's highlights was the Chandrayaan 3 ISRO-Industry Pavilion, a symbol of India's prowess in space exploration. The pavilion not only showcased ISRO's achievements but also highlighted the crucial contributions of SMEs, startups, and private industries to the Chandrayaan-3 Mission. A 1:1 scale model of Chandrayaan 3 Lander and an immersive AR/VR experience in a geodesic dome provided visitors with an enriching learning experience about lunar missions and space science. 

Another significant stride was the Green BTS initiative, demonstrating the summit's commitment to achieving Net Zero in the upcoming years. This ambitious goal involves integrating eco-conscious practices, including sustainable procurement and the establishment of a Sustainability Advisory, emphasizing key pillars such as carbon, water, energy, waste, food, and experience. This year BTS goes green with the tagline '#Green BTS,' achieving zero waste to landfill, cutting plastic use by 95% YoY, and setting new sustainability standards with partners 'EcoMorphosys,' segregating 6400 kgs of waste, evaluating a carbon footprint of 0.65 kgs per capita, assessing a water footprint at 3.4 litres per capita, and generating 90 kgs of biogas from food waste. The summit 2023 thus not only showcased technological advancements but also underscored its pioneering commitment to sustainability, making it a first-of-its-kind event in India. 

As the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 concludes, the echoes of innovation and collaboration are sure to resonate far beyond the event. The insights shared, partnerships forged, and technologies showcased have laid the foundation for a future where India continues to be at the forefront of global technological advancements. With the BTS 2023 chapter concluding, the dates of 27th & 28th edition that is to be held in 2024 and 2025 were also announced as 19-21 November.  

About organisers of Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 

BTS is organized by the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka, and co-hosted by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) and driven by members of Karnataka’s Vision Groups on IT, Biotechnology, and Start-Ups. BTS is the only event in India that has brought together leading cross-sectoral industry organizations like NASSCOM, IESA, ABAI, ABLE, TiE, and USIBC on a common platform.  The Event is curated by MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications. 

For more details visit www.bengalurutechsummit.com 

Photo Caption: Games24x7 partnered with the Government of Karnataka to launch 'GameTech Accelerate - The Future of Gaming' at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Enhances Quality Educational Infrastructure At Government Kannada Model Primary School In Ramanagara

In line with its commitment to bolster education in rural areas, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the handing over of newly built classrooms at Government Kannada Model Primary School, Ramanagara. This initiative is in line with its efforts to provide modern school infrastructure at grassroot level and support the growing educational needs.

The inauguration and handing over ceremony of these classrooms was graced by Dr. Avinash Menon Rajendran, IAS -Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate, Ramanagara District, Mr. Basavaraje Gowda, Deputy Director Public Instruction Admin - Education Department and Mr. Roshan R, Deputy General Manager, EA State, CSR & BIA, TKM.

The Government Kannada Model Primary School in Ramanagara, constructed by TKM with a capacity for 600  students was handed over in FY 2021-22. The school has seen a significant increase in admissions from about 400 to over 700 students in 2023. To meet the growing demand and infrastructural requirements, TKM constructed additional classrooms in the existing facility, expanding the school's capacity to accommodate more students increasing the total school capacity to about 720.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Avinash Menon Rajendran, IAS - Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate, Ramanagara District said, “Enhancing educational infrastructure in the most remote areas, not only lays the foundation for a brighter future but also guarantees that students have access to all the necessary facilities for a favorable learning environment. Toyota's efforts in constructing and handing over these newly build classrooms symbolizes a shared pledge to impart knowledge to our children. We appreciate Toyota Kirloskar Motor's proactive contribution in enriching the educational landscape of Ramanagara, by creating a transformative educational experience for our students of Karnataka.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At TKM, we recognize that education is a mainstay for community development and as a responsible corporate entity, we view it as our duty to contribute to the advancement of the rural education system, recognizing its pivotal role in the overall development of the state and the  nation. Our journey in Ramanagara is based on a collaborative approach, and we are honored to play a role in enhancing the educational facilities to provide a conducive learning environment at the Government Kannada Model Primary School. As we look ahead, TKM remains committed to creating sustainable, positive changes that resonate beyond the classrooms, contributing to the overall growth and development of the community we serve.”

Since 2001, CSR has been an integral part of TKM's philosophy, focusing on scalability and sustainability across five main themes: Education, Environment, Hygiene, Health, Road Safety, and Skill Development. This initiative aligns with TKM's broader commitment to support education in rural areas thus making sustained progress in the community.

The company through multiple efforts has provided a safe and conducive learning environment, by focusing on early childhood care by strengthening capacity building to deliver quality education with the support of “Anganwadis”, promoting inclusive education for special needs children and building modern school infrastructure in rural areas of Karnataka. These sustained efforts in the education area have positively impacted over 12,222 students in the last financial year and in total of 1,32,980 students since inception of the program.

International Conference On Millets, Organic And Natural Farming At Art of Living On Dec 9, 10 & 11

Millet Expo and International Conference on Millets, Organic and Natural Farming will be jointly organised by SRI SRI NAISARGIK AND UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES,GKVK, BANGALORE from 9-11, December 2023 in Art of Living Bangalore to commemorate the International Year of Millets. 

"Cultivation and usage of millets is important from the sustainable point of view. Millets can be cultivated on marginal lands and are climate resilient. Further , they have low glycemic index which makes them preferred grains for people suffering from diabetes and cardiovascular disrases," says Dr Khadar Vali, Millet Man of India. 

Emphasizing on the nutrition aspect of Millets, Dr Khadar says that millets are rich in nutrients, minerals,  and vitamins, crude fibre. The big advantage with millets is they are Gluten free. Millets  are easy to store for longer duration if they are not dehusked. They are mostly resistant to pest and diseases. In nutshell they are eco-friendly grains help just to meet the nutrition of human beings but also the grass acts as a very good fodder for  cattle and grains for birds which inturn help in controlling certain pests as th hese birds eat away the larvae certain pests. These crops since they belong to grass family are good soil binders this good for soil conservation.

SRi SRi NAiSARGiK: aims to create a sustainable, equitable, and environmentally-friendly system that supports small-scale farmers, local entrepreneurs, and communities while providing consumers with high-quality, ethically-sourced products .

Bank of India Increases Fixed Deposit Rates For Various Tenor

Bank of India, one of the leading public sector banks in India, has increased rates of its fixed deposits for its customers & general public (for Rs 2 Crs & above to less than Rs.10 Crs) in maturity of “46 days to up to 1 Year” with effect from 1st Dec, 2023.

Bank has increased its fixed deposit rates for shorter period i.e. “46 days to 90 days” tenure to 5.25%, for “91 days to 179 days” tenure to 6.00%, for “180 days to 210 days” tenure to 6.25%, for “211 days to less than 1 Year” tenure to 6.50% and for “1 Year” tenure to 7.25% p.a. The present rate of interest offered by the Bank is competitive, offering a very attractive return for investment from HNIs, Small & Mid Corporates, NRIs & Professionally Self Employed etc.  

With effect from 1st Nov, 23, bank had already increased rate of all deposits for amount of “Less than Rs.2 Crs” for 2 Year tenure. Here, Bank is offering its highest rate of interest up to 7.90% for super senior citizen, 7.75% for senior citizen and 7.25% for others for 2 Year Term. The revised interest rates are applicable for domestic, NRO and NRE Rupee Term deposits.

Stovekraft Expands Its Product Portfolio With The Launch Of Pigeon Duo OTG Airfryer

Stovekraft Limited, a pioneer in innovative cookware and kitchenware appliances, has launched the Pigeon Duo OTG Airfryer, underscoring its commitment to delivering cutting-edge products that meet the changing preferences of modern households. Pigeon Duo OTG Airfryer is an unparalleled innovation, seamlessly combining the functions of an OTG oven and an air fryer into a single, space-saving appliance.

Designed to redefine culinary experiences, this remarkable product brings convenience, versatility, and health-conscious cooking to your kitchen. With its spacious 25-liter interior capacity, it accommodates larger meals and facilitates the preparation of multiple dishes simultaneously. The Rapid Heating Technology (RHT) at 1400 Watts ensures swift heating, enabling users to commence cooking instantly and saving both time and energy.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Rajendra Gandhi, MD of Stovekraft, said, "We at Stovekraft have always been at the forefront of introducing high-quality kitchen appliances to meet our customers' growing demands. The Pigeon Duo OTG Airfryer is a revolutionary advancement in kitchen technology, designed to meet the needs of busy individuals and health-conscious families. This appliance seamlessly transitions between traditional OTG oven functions and advanced air fryer features, providing an all-in-one solution for baking, roasting, grilling, toasting, and guilt-free air frying. The removable trays make cleaning a breeze, ensuring simple and efficient upkeep.”

The Pigeon Duo OTG Airfryer uses Air Frying Technology to deliver crispy food textures with minimal oil, promoting healthier meals. This novel method provides the satisfying crunch of traditional frying without the extra calories and without sacrificing taste. It is simple to use, with 6 intuitive controls for precise temperature and cooking time settings.

Photo Caption: Mr. Rajendra Gandhi, MD of Stovekraft unveiled the Pigeon Duo OTG Airfryer.

Dr Deepak Padmanabhan From Sri Jayadeva Institute Honoured With Prestigious Sitaram Jaipuria Foundation Awards

* Dr Deepak Padmanabhan was recognised with Emerging Young Leader in Medicine and Healthcare Award.

Dr Deepak Padmanabhan, Cardiac Electrophysiologist at Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, was honoured with prestigious Medical & Healthcare Excellence Awards hosted by Sitaram Jaipuria Foundation for Emerging Young Leader in Medicine and Healthcare Award. The foundation presented a substantial Rs. 90 lakhs in awards to express profound gratitude for doctors’ invaluable contributions to society’s health and well-being.

The event, held in New Delhi, was graced by the presence of Guest of Honour Sonali Bendre which was hosted by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Chairman of SJF and Chairman & MD of Cosmo First Ltd. The ceremony honoured healthcare luminaries, showcasing the evolving landscape of medical contributions and innovations. The event also included a mesmerizing performance by Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and his talented sons Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash.

Citing the words of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the awards recognized doctors’ courage, selflessness, and resilience during unprecedented times. Their commitment extends beyond healing, instilling hope and fortitude into society. Hence, it is not just a duty; it’s a profound necessity for society to express utmost respect and heartfelt gratitude to the entire medical community.

The second edition drew attention with over 1,000 entries including 12 Padma awardees, demonstrating a growing commitment to recognizing exceptional contributions. Awards totalling Ninety Lakhs Rupees were conferred across various categories:

Winners of the Medical & Healthcare Excellence Awards 2023 are:

1.       INR 50 Lakhs for Excellence in Medicine and Healthcare Award

·         Prof. (Dr) Jeyaraj Durai Pandian- Professor & Head of Neurology and Principal/Dean /Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab

INR 10 Lakhs for Emerging Young Leader in Medicine and Healthcare Award

·         Dr Karan Madan- Additional Professor, Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine /All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi

·         Dr Deepak Padmanabhan- Cardiac Electrophysiologist/Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka

INR 10 Lakhs for Exemplary Leadership in Rural Medicine and Healthcare Award

·         Dr Regi M George and Dr Lalitha Regi- Managing Trustee and Trustee /Tribal Health Initiative, Sittilingi, Tamil Nadu

INR 10 Lakhs for Smt. Gayatri Jaipuria Women’s Medicine and Healthcare Excellence Award

·         Prof. (Dr) Pratibha Singhi- Professor & Head of Department of Paediatric Neurology / Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad, Haryana

INR 10 Lakhs for Shri Ashwini Kumar Lifetime Achievement in Healthcare Award

·         Prof. Gursaran Pran Talwar, Director Researcher / Talwar Research Foundation, New Delhi

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Chairman SJF and Chairman & MD of Cosmo First Ltd. stated, “In the spirit of my father, Sitaram Jaipuria's profound humanitarian values, we gather to celebrate our medical heroes. These exemplary doctors, akin to visible gods on Earth, have made it their life's mission to heal and uplift humanity. They embody the true essence of medicine and compassion.”

He further added, “Through the Medical & Healthcare Excellence Awards, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to these healthcare warriors who often work selflessly, sacrificing their comfort for the well-being of others. This recognition is a testament to their indomitable spirit, a reminder that their devotion to serving humanity never goes unnoticed.”

Kotak’s Global Service Account – A Comprehensive Current Account, Addresses A Range Of Banking Needs Of The Service Export Sector

Kotak Mahindra Bank (“KMBL”/ “Kotak”) today announced the launch of ‘Global Service Account’ (GSA) as a comprehensive current account to meet the unique banking needs of the Service Export Sector. This proposition will enable businesses with international presence, clients and employees, access a wide suite of products and services such as prioritised customer service with a dedicated Relationship Manager, Advisory Services on Forex Markets and Trends, access to Trade Experts and Digital Solutions and Lending solutions for on-time salaries, vendor payments, among others.

Global Service Account: A comprehensive suite of products and services

Exclusive One-Stop Service: A dedicated Relationship Manager to provide prioritised customer service

Advisory Services on Forex Markets and Trends: For a competitive edge with guidance on the latest trends in the world of Forex.

Trade Experts and Digital Solutions: Empower businesses with expert trade insights and innovative digital solutions.

Lending solution***: Access business financing of up to ?2 crore for on-time salaries, vendor payments, and more.

As per India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), a Trust established by the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the Service Export1 sector contributes to 40% of the total exports in India with a growth rate 26.8% in FY’23 as compared to FY’22, reaching $323 billion in FY’23.  Kotak aims to simplify customer experience by offering key banking products and services for global businesses within one current account, without having to opt for services separately. Global Service Account will cater to global services in sectors such as Consultancy, Software, BPO, E-commerce, Tour & Travel, Hospitality, and Transport, with increasing international operations.

Rohit Bhasin,     President - Retail Liabilities Product and Chief Marketing Officer, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, "Our Global Service Account will augment banking and finance related transactions for businesses with their international operations in a comprehensive and seamless manner. In an effort to be customer-centric, we continue to develop solutions that prioritize the needs of our customers, making it delightful to bank with us.”

The ‘Global Service Account’ offers two Current Account variants: ‘Global Service Account Ace’ and ‘Global Service Account Elite’. Both variants provide exclusive and preferred pricing for Trade and Forex Transactions, granting access to a Business Platinum Debit Card with exclusive VIP airport lounge privileges through Priority Pass. Furthermore, it also offers flexibility in maintaining Average Quarterly Balance (AQB) or quarterly throughput^*, ensuring that businesses can tailor the banking experience to their unique needs.

Global Service Account customers have accesses to a suite of power-packed solutions to give their business an edge:

Current Account Payment Solution: Simple and secure business payments with a bulk upload facility for easy and faster transactions

Trade and Forex Solutions: Execute end-to-end forex transactions, protect against currency fluctuations, and access seamless, paperless trade portals.

Lending Solutions***: Key offering includes lending solutions for on-time salary and vendor payments with unsecured overdraft limit of up to ?2 crore. Other offerings are Clean Overdraft, Hedging Limits, Foreign Currency Term Loans, Export Finance Limits, and Working Capital Solutions.

Corporate Salary: Benefit from zero-balance salary accounts for employees and Priority Banking offering for employees**, enticing brand offers, complimentary insurance covers, program perks for employees, and lifetime access to premium credit cards.

Corporate Credit Cards****: Special offers like cashback, fuel surcharge waivers, lounge access, and more along with a dashboard for expense control and monitoring

ActivMoney: Earn FD-like interest of up to 7%* p.a. on the idle funds in your Current Account above a minimum threshold###

Convenience Banking: Experience hassle-free banking through Kotak’s integrated ERP solutions and Access banking on-the-go through Kotak’s Net, Mobile, Phone, and SMS banking facilities, along with Kotak FYN, a one-stop digital portal for seamless account services.

^*For Global Service Account Elite, AQB of Rs. 1 lakh or quarterly throughput more than or equal to USD 1,00,000 needs to be maintained. For Global Service Account Ace, AQB of Rs. 2.5 lakh or quarterly throughput more than or equal to USD 2,50,000 needs to be maintained.

**For employees with salary of Rs. 1 lakh and above per month

***Terms & Conditions apply. Credit at the sole discretion of Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd and subject to guidelines issued by RBI from time to time. Bank may engage the services of marketing agents for the purpose of sourcing loan assets.

****Issuance of Credit Card is at the sole discretion of Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited. All features and benefits are subject to Credit Card terms and conditions.

*For deposits above 7 days. T&C apply. Visit www.kotak.com for more details. ### Minimum threshold for ActivMoney facility in Global Service Account is Rs. 2 lakh for Elite variant and Rs. 5 lakh for Ace variant.

For detailed T&Cs, please visit www.kotak.com.

About Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

The Bank has four Strategic Business Units – Consumer Banking, Corporate Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury, which cater to retail and corporate customers across urban and rural India. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked. As on 30 September 2023, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 1,850 branches and 3,170 ATMs, and branches in GIFT City and DIFC (Dubai).

For more information, please visit the company’s website at https://www.kotak.com/

BTS 2023 Puts Spotlight On Innovative Product Launches, Renewable Technologies In Addressing Climate Change & Government Policies

Highlights: 

An Informative Fireside Chat featuring Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw & Nobel Laureate Dr. H. Robert Horvitz: Exploring the Transition from Basic Research to High-Impact Innovation 

Other Noteworthy Events of the Day: TCS Rural IT Quiz National Finals, Groundbreaking Startup Product Launch, Introduction of Uber Green: A Global Flagship Electric Vehicle Service 

A Fireside Session led by Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India moderated by Jaya Jagadish, Country Head, Senior Vice-President, Silicon Design Engineering, AMD India 

STPI in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka supported by HPEIPL sets up a Center of Excellence (CoE-EA) in Efficiency Augmentation at Jayanagar, Bengaluru, to leverage the emerging Industry 4.0 technologies 

STPI IT Exports Awards 2023 Announced: IT Ratna of Karnataka was awarded to Infosys and Intel Technologies Pvt. Ltd. 

Bengaluru, 30th November 2023: The second day of the 26th Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. The event, organized by the Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, Government of Karnataka, and Software Technology Parks of India, captivated business visitors and experts from the Deeptech, BioTech, Startup, and Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) sectors. Exciting sessions and events were held, including fireside chats with industry leaders and recognition of exceptional talent in the industry. 

The day commenced with a compelling ITE & Deeptech Track titled "Tech Interventions for a Sustainable Future," featuring Sagar N, Farm & Field, crop & digital solutions, Santosh Subramanian, Regional CIO – SA, SEA & Oceania at Veolia, Prof. Claudio J Tessone from the University of Zurich, and Guru Prakash Shastry, Head - Climate Action, Infosys. The emphasis was on the importance of renewable technologies in addressing climate change and aligning human behaviour, government policies, and environmental metrics for sustainability. It stressed on altering water consumption metrics, employing AI for sewage management, and utilizing technology for real-time crop monitoring. The discussion also highlighted blockchain's role in transparent finance while cautioning against over-dependence on hyped technologies.  

This session was followed by a substantive discussion featuring Anjum Parwez, IAS, Managing Director of BMRCL, Sanjay Chaddha, Director Public Policy India & South Asia, Uber India Systems Private Limited, Blake Opsahl, Director of Business Development and Technology at BETA Technologies, and Prasanna Patwardhan, of Prasanna Purple Mobility Solutions. The panel addressed the theme "The C.A.S.E. for Future Mobility" delving into the critical role of integrated transportation, electric and autonomous vehicles, and their influence on shaping the future of mobility in India. The session encapsulated suggestions on alleviating traffic congestion in Bangalore, emphasizing the encouragement of public transportation usage over private modes, as one of the key strategies. 

Startup Product launched at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023: 

In the presence of Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics, IT & Bt, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka, and Shri Prashanth Prakash, Chairman, Vision Group for Startups, 35 groundbreaking products and solutions were unveiled by startups during the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2023. The second edition of the Startup Product Launch took place at the Startup Innovation Zone over the 2nd day of the summit. This initiative underscores the state's dedication to nurturing innovation across a diverse range of industries. 

TCS Rural IT Quiz National Finals: 

A significant moment of the day was the national finals of the 24th edition of  'Rural IT Quiz, graced by the presence of Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka along with Sunil Deshpande, Regional Head, TCS Bengaluru, Dr. Ekroop Caur - Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka and Shri Darshan H.V., IAS, Managing Director - Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Dept. of Electronics, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka. This year, the quiz was open to students in classes 8 to 12 across India. The program comprised online tests and virtual and physical quiz shows. As for the winners, Udit Pratap Singh from BSP Senior Secondary School, Bhilai Chhattisgarh claimed the first place, while Vignesh Nauso Shetye from Dr. K.B. Hedgewar Vidyamandir, Bicholim, Goa and Amrut Uppar from The Forbes Academy, Gokak Karnataka were the runners-up. The winning team was awarded a scholarship from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) worth rupees 1,00,000, runners-up were awarded scholarships worth rupees 50,000. 

Launch of Uber Green: 

Uber introduced its global flagship electric vehicle service, Uber Green, offering residents convenient access to eco-friendly rides through their app. This was launched by Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister of IT, Bt, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, and Uber India President Prabhjeet Singh at Bangalore Palace during the Bengaluru Tech Summit. Initially accessible in central Bengaluru, the service endeavours to extend its reach across additional areas within India’s startup hub. 

Centre of Excellence in Efficiency Augmentation: 

STPI has inaugurated the Centre of Excellence in Efficiency Augmentation (CoE-EA) in collaboration with Govt. of Karnataka, supported by HPEIPL at Jayanagar, Bengaluru, to leverage the emerging Industry 4.0 technologies. Spanning 16,000 sqft, the state-of-the-art facility includes an Innovation and Development Lab, an Incubation facility, and a dedicated Centre of Excellence. The CoE aims to nurture 100 startups and engage 25,000 students over the next 5 years.  

STPI IT Exports Awards – 2023: 

IT companies are being recognized by STPI for their performance and contribution to IT industries by awarding them in different categories every year. Accordingly, for the year 2022-23, the top performing IT companies like Wipro GE Healthcare, Cyient DLM Ltd., Infosys BPM Ltd., Oracle Financial Services Software Ltd., in the categories of Exports, Employment, Women Employment, etc., and IT Ratna of Karnataka were awarded to Infosys Ltd. and Intel Technology India Pvt. Ltd in the presence of Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics, IT & Bt, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka and other dignitaries at the Day 2 of the Bengaluru Tech Summit. 

Adding to the day's highlights, The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 concluded with an insightful fireside chat featuring Shri. Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Minister of State for Electronics, IT, Skill Development, and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, and Jaya Jagadish, Country Head and Senior Vice-President of Silicon Design Engineering at AMD India. Minister Chandrasekhar emphasized India's ascent as a dependable global partner and a prospective leader in the semiconductor industry, acknowledging the remarkable growth of the Indian ecosystem. He highlighted the resurgence in electronic engineering enrollments, emphasizing the rising demand for innovative minds and urging India's youth to consider careers in electronics. Chandrasekhar lauded AI's role as a driver of India's digital economy but cautioned about the necessity for legislative frameworks ensuring trust and safety in the AI domain. His insights outlined India's trajectory towards semiconductor leadership, stressing talent development and ethical AI integration in the nation's technological advancements. 

Highlights from conference tracks: Day 2 at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 

In the ITE and Deeptech Track, another session centered on "Navigating the Digital Frontier: Internet Governance, Cybersecurity & Cyber Warfare". The session highlighted the significance of raising awareness about cyber attacks for data protection and security. Panelists emphasized the necessity of grassroots-level awareness to fortify cybersecurity, stressing its profound impact on society.  

The Biotech Track on day 2 began with a vibrant fireside chat on the topic, “Basic Research to High-Impact Innovation” between Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson – Biocon Limited, & Chairperson, Vision Group on Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka and Dr. H. Robert Horvitz, Nobel Laureate & American biologist. Dr. Mazumdar-Shaw initiated a discussion on India's investment focus in basic scientific versus applied research, advocating for government support in fundamental research through academic centers. Dr. Horvitz emphasized the importance of a balanced research portfolio, drawing from his experiences as both a researcher and entrepreneur. He highlighted the transformative impact of research on patient recovery, stressing the need for an open-minded, opportunistic approach to one's career journey, reflecting on his diverse academic background in English, math, and physics, culminating in a career in biology. The dialogue underscored the necessity of diverse research investments, governmental backing for fundamental research, and the value of adaptability in shaping a fulfilling professional trajectory. 

The Startup Track commenced its session, "Rapid Revolution of Gen AI", delving into the diverse applications of AI across industries. Panelists illuminated the challenges and opportunities inherent in AI adoption. Exploring AI's impact on startups and corporations, they highlighted the significance of storytelling and historical apprehension toward new technologies. The discourse expanded to AI's role in creative tasks and generating synthetic content, acknowledging hurdles of quality and individuality. Conversational AI platforms like ChatGPT were emphasized, evolving toward outcome-driven solutions for industry-specific challenges. The discussion raised concerns about synthetic content fatigue, choice overload, and the necessity of a human touch in AI interactions. Furthermore, the session acknowledged AI's psychological impact on human happiness. 

The Global India Alliance (GIA) track commenced its first session of the day titled "Israel – From Idea to Impact: Israel’s Innovation Odyssey". The panelists showcased Israel's contributions to health monitoring, facial recognition, smart mobility, and electric vehicle motor design. Discussions highlighted collaborative endeavors between Israeli and Indian companies in these pioneering areas. Key themes encompassed technology applications for predictive fleet maintenance, the multifaceted role of facial recognition, bus transportation optimization via software solutions, and the development of compact motors for electric vehicles. The session emphasized the need for nurturing strategic alliances between Israel and India across technology, economy, and culture. 

Two concurrent sessions, "Electronics: The Backbone of Digital Economy" and "Semiconductors: Making India a Semiconductor Nation" encapsulated critical discussions paving the way for India's technological growth. The deliberations acknowledged India's proficiency in software but emphasized the necessity to intensify focus on hardware development, especially in fostering innovation among the younger generation. The vast digital economy, comprising over 900+ digital TV channels and 700+ million internet users, has catalyzed transformative changes across industries. India aspires to achieve a one trillion-dollar digital economy by 2028, signifying significant progress. Insights into the semiconductor domain highlighted the impending surge in demand for advanced technologies, focusing on miniaturization, efficiency, and the rise of specialty semiconductors like compound semiconductors. The sessions underscored India's Semiconductor Mission, aligning with emerging technologies and emphasizing research, development, and strategic global partnerships. Discussions also stressed India's potential in GaN & SiC fabrication, considering strong local demand and export prospects. Addressing India's role in the global semiconductor landscape, fostering start-ups, embracing emerging technologies, and talent development were other crucial topics discussed. These sessions presented a comprehensive roadmap for India to establish itself as a significant contributor to the evolving global semiconductor industry. 

The Global India Alliance Track's special session, "India USA Tech Conclave: Innovative Healthcare Technologies" explored how technology revolutionizes healthcare. Panelists discussed collaborative efforts between India and the USA, focusing on AI, IoT, and the essential collaboration among government, industry, and policymakers. They addressed complexities in technology adoption, reimbursement challenges, and the need for cost reductions. The session emphasized policy tracking and optimized data for better health outcomes, offering insights into emerging healthcare technologies. Discussions highlighted the advantages of robotic surgery and its projected growth, providing a comprehensive outlook on healthcare's future. 

About organisers of Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 

BTS is organized by the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka, and co-hosted by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) and driven by members of Karnataka’s Vision Groups on IT, Biotechnology, and Start-Ups. BTS is the only event in India that has brought together leading cross-sectoral industry organizations like NASSCOM, IESA, ABAI, ABLE, TiE, and USIBC on a common platform.  The Event is curated by MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications. 

For more details visitwww.bengalurutechsummit.com  

Photo Caption - Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka with the winners of TCS Rural IT Quiz announced at the Day 2 of the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023. 

Punjab National Bank Recognises “Hockey Players For Outstanding Contributions At The Asian Games”

Punjab National Bank (PNB), the nation's leading public sector bank, felicitated its Hockey Team players who are part of the Indian National Team - Shamsher Singh (Tokyo Olympic 2020 Bronze Medalist & Commonwealth Games 2022 Silver Medalist), Abhishek (Commonwealth Games 2022 Silver Medalist) and Sukhjeet Singh - for their notable contributions during the recently held Asian Games 2022 in China during September-October 2023.  

Congratulating the Hockey players on their success, Shri Atul Kumar Goel, MD & CEO, PNB, expressed, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our superheroes for their contribution in securing the Gold Medal for the nation in the Asian Games 2022. The way you all have showed your strength, determination, and positive attitude to overcome all obstacles, are your greatest contribution to this country, and an inspiration to the PNB Parivaar and above all to the nation.” 

The felicitation event took place at the Bank's Corporate Office in Delhi and was graced by the presence of Shri Atul Kumar Goel, MD & CEO of PNB, along with Executive Directors Shri Kalyan Kumar, Shri Binod Kumar and Chief Vigilance Officer Shri Raghvendra Kumar. The event was also graced by special guests Shri Romesh Pathania (Dronacharya awardee and former coach of PNB Senior Hockey Team) and Shri Ashok Kumar Sharma (first Nodal Officer, PNB Hockey Academy).   

The event commenced with a welcome address by PNB CGM Shri Sanjay Varshneya. As part of the felicitation, PNB MD&CEO presented the hockey players (Shamsher Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Abhishek) a cash incentive of Rs 10 lakhs each. Additionally, in accordance with PNB's internal policy, players were also awarded increments and promotion as a token of recognition. 

PNB MD&CEO also felicitated Shri Paramjeet Singh (current coach of PNB Senior Hockey team) and other team players with mementos.  

Photo Caption: PNB MD&CEO Shri Atul Kumar Goel felicitating Shri Abhishek (extremely left), Shri Sukhjeet Singh (right) and Shri Shamsher Singh (extremely right) for their outstanding contributions at the Asian Games at PNB Corporate Office 

Bank of Baroda Introduces The “BOB Parivar Account For Savings And Current Accounts”

- ‘My Family, My Bank’ brings together a family’s entire banking relationship with the Bank, doing away with the need to maintain minimum balance for each account and enabling all family members to enjoy attractive benefits 

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, announced the introduction of the “BOB Parivar Account for Savings and Current Accounts”. The ‘My Family, My Bank’ segment, which has been launched as a part of the Bank’s “BOB Ke Sang Tyohaar Ki Umang” festive campaign, groups all the bank accounts belonging to members of a single family under One Family. While each account will be operated independently by the primary account holder, the maintenance of quarterly average balance (QAB) is recorded at the Group/ Family level, eliminating the need to maintain QAB in every single account. 

Further, it gives each family member access to an array of benefits during the festive period due to the overall enhanced relationship. The BOB Parivar facility is open to both new and existing customers.  

The BOB Parivar Account can comprise of a minimum of two and a maximum of six members. Eligible family members for the BOB Parivar Savings Account segment include the spouse, parents, children, parents-in-law, daughter-in-law and/or son-in-law. The BOB Parivar Current Account Segment is open to proprietorship, partnership, LLP and Pvt. Ltd. companies, which are group companies or sister concerns.   

Both the BOB Parivar Savings Account and the BOB Parivar Current Account segments come in three distinct variants – Diamond, Gold and Silver – with varying Pooled Quarterly Average Balance (PQAB) requirements (For Savings Accounts - Diamond: Rs 5 lakh & above; Gold: Rs 2 lakh & above; Silver: Rs 50,000 & above; For Current Accounts - Diamond: Rs 10 lakh & above; Gold: Rs 5 lakh & above; Silver: Rs 2 lakh and above) and associated benefits.  

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ravindra Singh Negi, Chief General Manager - Retail Liabilities & NRI Business, Bank of Baroda said, “We are delighted to introduce the BOB Parivar Account for our Savings and Current Account holders. By grouping together individual accounts of a single family or associated companies, our customers will be greatly rewarded with superior benefits, which are normally provided in accounts maintaining higher balances. In the BOB Parivar Account segment, all individual family members will gain from the overall balances maintained together. Here there is no requirement to maintain individual Quarterly Average Balance for each account, thus enhancing the overall banking experience. As a bank with a 115 year history, we are privileged to have generations from the same family bank with us and the ‘My Family, My Bank’ concept will further strengthen and deepen their relationship with Bank of Baroda.” 

Benefits of the BOB Parivar Account: 

Concessional Interest Rates on Retail Loans for Saving Accountholders  

Waiver of Processing Charges on Retail Loans (excluding TCR/Valuation Charges) 

Concession in Locker Rent Charges 

Concession in Demat AMC  

Concession in manual NEFT/RTGS charges (Digital is 100% Free)  

Complete waiver of DD/PO Charges 

Concession in Cheque Book charges 

Waiver of charges on collection of Outstation Cheques (Only Postage & Out of Pocket expenses are payable for Collection of Outstation Cheques) 

Complimentary SMS/Email Alerts and Standing instructions 

For details on ‘My Family, My Bank’ and to avail this facility, click on Baroda Family Savings Account Segment and Baroda Family Current Account Segment or visit the nearest Bank of Baroda branch.  

Indus Appstore Powers Up: Major Game Developers Join The Indus Appstore

* MPL, Dream11, Nazara Technologies, A23, RummyCulture, RummyTime, Junglee Rummy, Rummy Passion CardBaazi, Taj Rummy, and more have partnered with the Indus Appstore

* Zero in-app Commissions and Localized Reach: Game-Changing Features Excite Developers

Indus Appstore, India's very own Android-based mobile app store, announced the onboarding of leading game developers, revolutionizing the gaming experience for users across the nation.

In a groundbreaking move Dream11, Nazara Technologies, A23, MPL, Junglee Rummy, Taj Rummy, Rummy Passion, RummyCulture, RummyTime and CardBaazi have partnered with the Indus Appstore.

This partnership promises to enhance the gaming experience for millions of users, providing a diverse range of quality games that align with Indus Appstore's commitment to diversity and innovation.

Indus Appstore's commitment to supporting developers is highlighted by the zero commissions on in-app payments, a stark contrast to other app stores charging hefty fees ranging from 15-30%. This revolutionary move empowers developers to focus on crafting immersive gaming experiences without financial constraints. Additionally, the platform's localization feature ensures that these games can now reach every corner of India, offering content in the language of the user's choice.

Speaking on the partnership Akash Dongre, Co-founder of Indus Appstore, said "We are thrilled to welcome these gaming giants to the Indus Appstore family. Their expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch gaming experiences aligns seamlessly with our vision. Together, we look forward to crafting the next growth story in the Indian gaming industry."

Partner Quotes

* Sunit Warraich (CEO), CardBaazi: "With Indus Appstore, we're set to redefine the card gaming sphere, providing not just entertainment but a commitment to fair and rewarding interactions for players. With Cardbaazi's immersive gameplay and Indus Appstore’s supportive environment, we're excited to offer an unmatched card gaming escapade, enriched by zero commission on in-app purchases, fostering a community passionate about fair play and enjoyment."

* Manish Shrivastava (VP Marketing), MPL: "Being a platform that has an enviable roster of games, MPL's aim is to make gaming accessible to people all across the country, giving users the opportunity to play games of skill that they’d want. Partnering with Indus Appstore will help us reach out to the India we are building for."

* Amandeep Singh (CMO), Rummy Passion: "We are looking forward to scale our product, Rummy Passion, on the Indus Appstore and are eager to explore the significant growth opportunity that awaits us. Indus Appstore’s India-based Support Team stands out, offering real-time and dedicated support—an invaluable resource ensuring seamless user experience. We believe this partnership will help us drive widespread user product adoption and engagement.”

* Pratik Sahu(AVP Marketing), Gameskraft: “Partnering with Indus Appstore will open avenues to reach newer audience for Gameskraft. Their ingenious video-led app discovery experience will help spark a significant wave of awareness for our apps. We are looking forward to being part of India's first appstore and reaching a wider audience."

* Sudhir Kamath(COO), Nazara Technologies: “Our dedication to bringing diverse gaming experiences to players across different platforms aligns perfectly with Indus Appstore's vision of empowering users with a variety of quality apps. We're thrilled to join this innovative platform, further expanding our reach and offering our engaging games to a broader audience.”

* Bhanuchander B (Head of Marketing), Taj Rummy: “Indus Appstore’s distinctive advantage of Localized App Listing resonates deeply with us—it's a bridge to connect with Bharat by embracing their language and culture. This tailored approach amplifies our reach, offering a more personalized gaming experience. Together with Indus Appstore, we're poised to elevate the joy of rummy gaming, ensuring our platform resonates authentically with diverse audiences.”

* Sudarshan (Senior Director, Acquisition), A23: “We're thrilled to join forces with Indus Appstore and are excited about unleashing our gaming experiences to a broader audience. With targeted advertising solutions, we're poised to reach the right users, engage effectively, and drive conversions. Join us in this exciting journey as we captivate audiences and elevate the gaming experience with Indus Appstore's tailored advertising solutions..”

Developers across India can become a part of the Indus Appstore and  showcase their apps. All they need to do is visit Indus Appstore and be a catalyst for innovation in the digital landscape.

About Indus Appstore

Indus Appstore is a native Android-based mobile app store, designed to fulfill the localized and cultural needs of Indian consumers. With an extensive array of categories it seeks to provide users a localized, contextual and a personalized experience. Indus Appstore is available in English and 12 Indian languages, which allows users to explore the Appstore in their preferred language.

For developers, Indus Appstore provides a fair and level playing field to list, distribute & promote their products in the Indian app ecosystem. It provides a self-publishing platform, localization services, multiple tools to monitor and grow their apps along with a dedicated 24x7 customer support.